Midnight can strike in the 6.40

SINCE I began riding, I have never missed a Punchestown Festival through injury.

Walking through the gates today then is going to feel quite odd, knowing that once the action starts I will be playing no part in it. I’ve been very lucky here over the years and it is my favourite meetings of the season in Ireland. It’s my local track and, really, only ranks behind Cheltenham for me.

I have been leading jockey eight times and rode ten winners there last year, so I think I may well find the next five days hard enough going.